While staying at a hotel a few nights ago the boys wanted to go swimming.  As a matter of fact, all they talked about during the last two hours of our drive was the importance of finding a hotel with an indoor pool.  They were so excited.  Checking into the Holiday Inn.  Getting into our room. Digging through their suitcases for that new summer swimsuit.  I was almost running to keep up with them as they hurried to the pool room.  Arriving last to the swimming pool I was surprised to find them dry and just standing.  They put one toe and and declared it to be too cold.  “Jump in” I said.  You’re wasting swim time.  The pool closes soon.  They hesitated.  They doubted if they should. They had fear the water might not feel warm enough.  My boys wasted lots of time thinking it over. When they finally took the plunge they had the time of their lives.

As I watched them swim I wondered how many times have I missed out on great opportunities because of fear of the unknown of even because it was difficult.  Several of those times came to mind. As a matter of fact, the greatest blessings of my life have been times when I have felt the fear and done it anyway.  When fear overcomes us it is easy and tempting to “spiritualize” why we are not doing it.  I think we can misuse the phrase “God told me” when it concerns something that takes us out of our comfort zone. 

What about you?  Are you thinking of taking a plunge but holding back due to fear or because it will take you out of your comfort zone?  We would love to hear your experience in this.